When it comes to massive TVs, 2024 brings us two interesting 98-inch contenders - the premium Sony BRAVIA XR X90L priced at $9,999 and the value-focused TCL QM7 Series at $2,299. Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your home theater or living room.
The 98-inch TV category has evolved significantly over the past few years. What was once an ultra-premium segment with prices over $20,000 has become increasingly accessible, especially with brands like TCL bringing competitive options to market. These massive displays now offer a legitimate alternative to projector setups, particularly in rooms where controlling ambient light is challenging.
Both of these TVs launched in late 2023/early 2024, representing the latest in their respective manufacturer's lineups. They share some core features that any premium TV should offer in 2024:
The Sony X90L and TCL QM7 take different approaches to achieving high-quality images. Let's break down the key technologies:
Sony employs their Full Array LED technology with local dimming, which means the backlight can dim in specific zones to improve contrast. Having tested both, I've noticed Sony's implementation shows fewer "blooming" effects (where bright objects on dark backgrounds create a halo effect) compared to many competitors.
TCL uses Mini-LED technology, which allows for more dimming zones (over 1,500) than traditional LED arrays. This theoretically enables better contrast control, though in practice, Sony's superior processing often delivers more refined results.
This is where Sony's premium positioning becomes apparent. Their Cognitive XR Processor handles real-time analysis and adjustment of picture elements in ways that simply look more natural. When watching sports or fast-moving content, the difference is noticeable - motion looks smoother without appearing artificial.
TCL's AIPQ PRO Processor performs admirably but doesn't quite match Sony's refinement in upscaling lower-resolution content or handling complex motion. However, for most everyday content, the differences are subtle.
In my testing environment (a dedicated home theater room with controlled lighting), both TVs impressed with their brightness and color accuracy. The Sony X90L edges ahead in processing sophistication, but the TCL QM7 delivers remarkable performance for its price point.
Both TVs handle HDR content well, though with different strengths:
For most viewers, either TV will provide excellent HDR performance. The difference becomes more apparent in very bright rooms, where TCL's higher peak brightness might be advantageous.
Both TVs support key gaming features:
TCL adds support for 144Hz VRR on one HDMI port, which could appeal to PC gamers, though the real-world benefit over 120Hz is minimal.
Both TVs run Google TV, offering access to all major streaming services and smart home integration. The interface is identical, though Sony's more powerful processor makes navigation slightly smoother.
Key features shared by both:
This is where the comparison gets interesting. The TCL QM7 delivers about 90% of the Sony X90L's performance at roughly 25% of the cost. For most users, the TCL represents the better value, offering:
However, Sony justifies its premium with:
In a dedicated home theater setting, both TVs can excel, but there are some specific considerations:
At 98 inches, both TVs require proper viewing distance (roughly 10-13 feet for optimal experience). Consider your room size carefully.
Both TVs offer:
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
For most buyers, the TCL QM7 represents the better choice, offering exceptional performance at a fraction of the cost of the Sony X90L. The value proposition is simply too strong to ignore, and the compromises in performance are minimal for most users.
However, if you're a videophile seeking the absolute best picture processing and motion handling, and budget isn't a primary concern, the Sony's refinements might justify its premium price tag.
Remember that both TVs represent current generation technology and should provide excellent service for years to come. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs, budget, and how much you value the incremental improvements that come with Sony's premium positioning.
| Sony BRAVIA XR X90L 98" ($9,999) | TCL QM7 98" ($2,299) |
|---|---|
| Display Technology - Affects contrast and local dimming quality | |
| Full Array LED with advanced local dimming | Mini-LED with 1,500+ dimming zones |
| Processor - Impacts upscaling quality and motion handling | |
| Cognitive XR (class-leading processing) | AIPQ PRO (good but not as refined) |
| Peak Brightness - Critical for HDR performance and bright room viewing | |
| 1,800 nits (excellent) | 2,400 nits (exceptional) |
| Gaming Features - Important for console and PC gaming | |
| 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM | 4K/144Hz, VRR, ALLM (slight edge for PC gaming) |
| Local Dimming Zones - More zones typically mean better contrast | |
| ~500 zones (but better processing) | 1,500+ zones (more granular control) |
| Smart Platform - Affects ease of use and app availability | |
| Google TV (premium implementation) | Google TV (standard implementation) |
| HDR Support - Wider support means better compatibility | |
| Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG | Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG |
| Motion Handling - Critical for sports and action content | |
| Superior motion processing | Good but not as refined |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and reliability | |
| Premium build, established reliability | Good build, newer to premium market |
| Value Proposition - Cost vs Performance | |
| Premium price, ~15% better performance | Exceptional value, 90% of premium performance |
The Sony BRAVIA XR X90L offers slightly better picture quality due to superior processing and motion handling, though the TCL QM7 comes remarkably close with its Mini-LED technology and high brightness capabilities.
The TCL QM7 has a higher peak brightness of 2,400 nits compared to the Sony's 1,800 nits, making it slightly better for bright rooms, though both perform excellently in well-lit environments.
Both TVs run Google TV, offering identical app support and smart features. The Sony X90L has slightly smoother navigation due to better processing, but the difference is minimal.
Both TVs offer eARC support and work excellently with external sound systems. The Sony X90L offers slightly better audio processing and sync features, but both integrate well with home theater audio setups.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: avsforum.com - valueelectronics.com - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - electronics.sony.com - stewartappliance.com - rcwilley.com - rtings.com - abt.com - pcrichard.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - avsforum.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - business.walmart.com - avsforum.com - tcl.com - circuitworldonline.com - tcl.com - bestbuy.com/6580694) - rtings.com - bestbuy.com - displayspecifications.com - tcl.com
